Bookshops See Surge in Sales of “The Odyssey” Following Film Release
In a striking turn of events, several bookstores across the country report a noticeable uptick in interest for Homer’s timeless epic, “The Odyssey,” spurred by the recent cinematic adaptation of the same name.
Berlingske reached out to major retailers, including Politikens Boghal, Saxo, and Bog & Idé, to gauge the impact of the film on book sales. While specific numbers remain confidential, Saxo revealed that sales in the first seven months of this year have jumped by 20 percent compared to the entirety of 2025.
Louis Holck Petersen, retail manager at Politikens Boghal and Arnold Busck in Copenhagen, observed a tangible shift in consumer behavior. “Sales begin to climb as the film premiere approaches and really accelerate after the movie releases,” he shared with Berlingske.
This past Saturday, Emily Wilson’s acclaimed translation of the ancient text secured the number eight spot on Saxo’s bestseller list, underscoring the film’s influence. Berlingske notes that director Christopher Nolan drew inspiration from Wilson’s translation in crafting his adaptation.
Premièring on July 16, “The Odyssey” follows the legendary hero Odysseus as he navigates a series of formidable challenges on his journey home from the Trojan War. The film boasts a remarkable cast, featuring Matt Damon as Odysseus and Anne Hathaway as his wife, Penelope, alongside stars like Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson, Zendaya, and Charlize Theron.
Nolan, known for his critically acclaimed works such as “Inception” and “The Dark Knight,” recently garnered accolades for his film “Oppenheimer,” which won several awards, including Best Film and Best Director at the 2024 Oscars.
In its opening weekend, “The Odyssey” sold a staggering 82,000 tickets in Danish cinemas, as reported by Michael Valentin, director of the industry body Danske Biografer.
—RITZAU
